4.SR: How have you changed as a writer over the years?
KMH: My writing has become an exercise of rhythm as much as it is vocabulary. I've learned to recognize that beat that makes my work the best it can be. Once I had that awareness, writing was still work, but much more rewarding. I've also set out to learn to write fiction in addition to nonfiction. My personality won't let me "release" anything that's not as polished as I can make it, so that may take a while. But I've studied some exceptional writers -- interviewed them, read their work. So I hope I can put what I've learned to use in a YA novel soon.
5.SR: What were the most discouraging obstacles you had to overcome to reach your dream of being a writer?
KMH: Because I started writing journalistic nonfiction for adults, my most discouraging moments came when I realized I didn't have it in me to hurt other people with the facts, even if those people were called "bad." I've never been able to see any personality with blinders on. I find it tough to sit in judgement. I've tend to ask WHY along with WHAT -- and that makes reporter-style brutality almost impossible for me.
6.SR: What do you want people to know about you as a writer?
KMH: I want people to know I'm a journalist that understands other writers. And I want them to know you can report and still retain a level of personal integrity. I also want them to understand that one of my primary goals in life is to connect with people in isolation -- however they define it. Compassion drives a lot of what I do.
7.SR: What do you like and dislike about trends and titles for young adults?
I like two trends I've witnessed more than any others -- a trend towards silly, kid-friendly picture books and a trend toward honest teen fiction about real kids with real struggles. I believe literature is often a young readers only escape from domestic turmoil. If kids find their sanctuaries in books, it can literally save lives. These trends make that kind of connection possible.
8. Who are some of your favorite comtemporary authors? Fiction and nonfiction?
KMH: Chris Crutcher, Sarah Dessen, the late Robert Cormier, Francesca Lia Block, Terry Trueman, Annette Curtis Klause, Walter Dean Myers, Alex Flinn, Terry Davis, Christopher Paul Curtis, Marcus Zusak, god the list goes on and on with fiction. Nonfiction, I lean towards humor essayists like Al Frankin and David Sedaris.
9.SR: How has the Internet influenced and effected you as a writer?
